Millions of dollars’ worth of U.S.-funded contraceptives—originally designated for women in low-income countries—face imminent destruction in France, drawing backlash from international aid groups, feminist coalitions, and European lawmakers.
The reproductive health products—valued at $9.7 million—have been stalled for months in a Belgian warehouse, following a controversial decision by the Trump administration to dismantle USAID and halt distribution. The State Department referred to the stock, which includes intrauterine devices, injectable contraceptives, implants, and oral pills, as “abortifacients”—a term strongly contested by medical professionals.
According to U.S. officials, the hormonal strength of these products requires dual incineration, costing American taxpayers approximately $167,000. Offers from global NGOs to redistribute the supplies at no cost were rejected. Advocacy groups including Médecins Sans Frontières and MSI Reproductive Choices have argued the products remain viable for use through 2031.
Logistics remain unclear, but French facilities may oversee the incineration process. The move has provoked outrage in France, where civil rights groups and politicians denounce it as sexist, opaque, and contrary to the country’s feminist foreign policy. A petition launched July 30 gathered over 6,000 signatures in 24 hours, demanding President Emmanuel Macron block the destruction.
The consequences are far-reaching. Experts estimate the stock could have supported the contraceptive needs of 650,000–950,000 women, potentially reducing maternal deaths and unsafe abortions in the Global South—particularly sub-Saharan Africa.
While Belgium claims to be exploring alternatives, time is running out. Democratic lawmakers in the U.S. have proposed emergency legislation to stop the destruction, but its passage remains uncertain.
From political posturing to logistical deadlock, the future of these life-saving supplies now hangs in the balance. Critics warn that failing to repurpose them would not only squander public funds—it could compromise women’s health worldwide.
